Entertainment
Inside Nicole Kidman’s Career ‘Expansion’ Inspired by Death
Nicole Kidman is embarking on a profound personal journey that moves far beyond the glitz and glamour of the screen.
Following a period of heartbreaking loss since the death of her mother, the Academy Award winner is turning her focus toward a specialized form of care for those in their final stages of life.
Kidman’s mother passed away in 2024, and the unfortunate situation forced the actress to skip the prestigious Venice Film Festival.
Nicole Kidman Pursues New Path As A Death Doula
During an appearance at the University of San Francisco’s Silk Speaker Series, Kidman shared the surprising news that she is training to become a death doula.
The 58-year-old actress admitted to the audience that while the career move “sounds a little weird,” it is a deeply personal goal born from the grief she experienced following her mother’s passing in 2024.
Kidman reflected on how her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, felt lonely during her final days at age 84. Despite the efforts of Kidman and her sister, the demands of their large families and high-pressure careers made it difficult to provide the constant presence their mother needed, especially since their father had passed away in 2014.
This realization led Kidman to appreciate the role of end-of-life doulas, who offer emotional, spiritual, and practical support to ensure dignity during the dying process, per the San Francisco Chronicle.
“So that’s part of my expansion and one of the things I will be learning,” she said, explaining that this new endeavor was a vital addition to her life and skills.
Nicole Kidman’s Mother Tragically Passed Away in 2024
The sudden loss of Janelle Ann in September 2024 served as the primary catalyst for Kidman’s deep reflection on the end-of-life process.
Despite being honored with the Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival for her role in the film “Babygirl,” the actress was forced to skip the prestigious ceremony to be with her family.
In a moving statement read on her behalf by director Halina Reijn, Kidman expressed her absolute shock and heartbreak upon discovering the news shortly after she arrived in Italy, per The Blast.
In her emotional message to the festival audience, she dedicated her win to her mother, stating, “She shaped me and made me.” She described the “collision of life and art” as heartbreaking, noting that her mother’s influence was the driving force behind her successful career.
Kidman Heavily Reflected On Mortality And Grief
The profound heartbreak felt in Venice was only the beginning of a period where the actress began to engage more deeply with the concept of human existence.
In a candid interview after, Kidman opened up about how entering her 50s has made her more attuned to her own mortality and the weight of life’s emotional depths.
According to The Blast, she admitted that she no longer tries to numb her feelings, instead choosing to remain “fully in it” as she navigates the complexities of marriage, raising children, and the painful loss of her parents.
These raw emotions often manifest in intense physical ways, with Kidman revealing that she sometimes wakes up at 3 a.m, “crying and gasping” as the reality of life’s journey hits her.
Romantic Speculations Recently Surrounded Nicole Kidman And Simon Baker
The intensity of Kidman’s emotional journey was further complicated by the public’s constant scrutiny of her personal life and relationships. Following her recent split from Keith Urban, all eyes were on Kidman during the premiere of her latest television project.
Dressed in Chanel couture, the actress appeared poised, but it was her interactions with co-star Simon Baker that became the primary focus of media attention.
According to The Blast, the visible closeness between Kidman and Baker at the premiere quickly fueled speculation about the nature of their relationship, especially given the timing of her separation from Urban.
The two appeared strikingly comfortable and even affectionate while posing together, leading fans to question if their bond extended beyond the professional realm. However, despite the widespread curiosity and circulating photos, insiders have been quick to suggest that the narrative may not be as dramatic as it seems.
Keith Urban Was Reportedly Hurt By Red Carpet PDA
While the actress and Baker’s relationship reportedly remains professional, the fallout from their public display of affection reached her former inner circle.
According to The Blast, reports suggest that the close red carpet appearance has deeply unsettled her ex-husband, Urban, who reportedly feels betrayed by the situation.
Despite being told that the affectionate gestures were merely promotional, Urban is said to be struggling with the public nature of their bond, leading to significant tension between the former friends.
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Cardi B is showing support to Megan Thee Stallion after the “Body” rapper finished her run in the Broadway musical “Moulin Rouge!” In a new statement, Cardi B also expressed her hopes for her rap sister after the sister announced her messy split from NBA champion Klay Thompson.
For those who may be unfamiliar, Megan Thee Stallion snagged a role in the Broadway musical, “Moulin Rouge!” at the beginning of 2026 and wrapped her run on May 1.
Cardi B showed her support for the superstar rapper, attending the last show and praising her skills to the public.
“I went to see Meg at Broadway, it was so, so, so good,” Cardi B said, according to Complex. “Megan looked amazing, and she did amazing.”
The love didn’t stop there. Cardi B opened up about the experience before revealing her hopes for Megan Thee Stallion.
“It was so fun… I was liking the storyline,” she said. “I hope she does it again.”
Megan Thee Stallion Cried On The Broadway Stage
According to The Blast, Megan Thee Stallion actually concluded her run in “Moulin Rouge!” earlier than expected. Her sudden departure from the series came after she was spotted crying on stage hours after announcing her split from Thompson in April 2026.
Before the tears, Megan was ecstatic about stepping out of her comfort zone and adding to her resume.
“Stepping onto the Broadway stage and joining the Moulin Rouge! The Musical team is an absolute honor,” she said. “I’ve always believed in pushing myself creatively and theater is definitely a new opportunity that I’m excited to embrace. Broadway demands a different level of discipline, preparation and storytelling, but I’m up for the challenge and can’t wait for the Hotties to see a new side of me.”
Megan Thee Stallion Slammed Thompson On Instagram, Accused Him Of Cheating On Her
Megan Thee Stallion made headlines in late April when she blasted her ex-boyfriend, Thompson, on Instagram, accusing him of being unfaithful to her.
“Cheating, had me around your whole family playing house… got ‘cold feet,’” she wrote online, according to The Blast. “Holding you down through all your HORRIBLE mood swings and treatment towards me during your basketball season, now you don’t know if you can be ‘monogamous????’”
While it’s unclear what else might’ve occurred between Megan Thee Stallion and Thompson, the former said she wasn’t interested in half-effort relationships.
“Trust, fidelity and respect are non-negotiable for me in a relationship, and when those values are compromised, there’s no real path forward. I’m taking this time to prioritize myself and move ahead with peace and clarity,” she said.
Cardi B Has Had Her Own Relationship Struggles
Cardi B knows a thing or two about challenging relationships, as the “Hello” rapper has spoken candidly about the downfall of her marriage to rapper Offset.
Over the years, the pair have aired each other’s dirty laundry out, with Cardi B accusing the Migos performer of not only cheating on her, but also harassing her.
During a previous interview with Rolling Stone, Cardi B said she and Offset are two different people from different worlds.
“Sometimes I cannot be … not that I cannot be a wife. It’s just like, my career takes my life. You know what I’m saying? My career comes first, then my kids come second. And then sometimes I don’t realize that I’m putting so many things before my relationship,” she said.
Cardi B Claims Offset Tried To Sabotage One Of Her Relationships
During an X Live Spaces, according to PEOPLE, Cardi B also got real about the alleged mistreatment she’s endured.
“Every time he knows that I go out of town, he harasses me,” Cardi B said, claiming her ex would send her “voice notes” attempting to crush her self-esteem. “I’m so tired of it,” she said.
At another point during the livestream, Cardi B accused Offset of interfering in her romantic relationships with other people.
“Mind you, he sent text messages to somebody I was dealing with of videos of me and him having sex. That’s the kind of s— that I was dealing with for the past two months,” she claimed.
The angriest couple on television is just a few weeks away from returning to us, which is great news for anyone who enjoys some romance, black eyes, broken legs, torture, trauma, threats, dumping bodies in the middle of nowhere, and cowboy hats. Who doesn’t love a smorgasbord of Taylor Sheridan‘s finest wares? Now, after years of Yellowstone fans wondering what would happen next, the franchise’s biggest swing is almost here.
But it isn’t just a sequel to the events of Yellowstone‘s bloody finale. Oh no, this one moves the action down to Texas, putting Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser‘s Beth and Rip on a collision course with some new enemies and incredible sunsets. Dutton Ranch will premiere globally on Paramount+ on Friday, May 15, launching with its first two episodes. The series will also air on Paramount Network beginning May 15 at 8 p.m. ET/PT, before continuing weekly. The first season will run for nine episodes, with new episodes rolling out every Friday after the two-part premiere. The official synopsis reads:
“As Beth and Rip fight to build a future together — far from the ghosts of Yellowstone — they collide with brutal new realities and a ruthless rival ranch that will stop at nothing to protect its empire. In South Texas, blood runs deeper, forgiveness is fleeting, and the cost of survival might just be your soul.”
Who Stars in ‘Dutton Ranch’?
The cast of Dutton Ranch also includes Finn Little (Those Who Wish Me Dead, Storm Boy) as Carter, Juan Pablo Raba (Narcos, The 33) as Joaquin, Jai Courtney (Suicide Squad, Terminator Genisys) as Rob-Will, J.R. Villarreal (Akeelah and the Bee, Ultra Violet & Black Scorpion) as Azul, Marc Menchaca (Ozark, The Outsider) as Zachariah, Natalie Alyn Lind (The Gifted, Big Sky) as Oreana, Ed Harris (The Truman Show, Apollo 13) as Everett McKinney, and Annette Bening (American Beauty, Nyad) as Beulah Jackson.
The series is created by Chad Feehan, based on characters created by Taylor Sheridan and John Linson. Feehan also serves as showrunner, while Christina Alexandra Voros directs multiple episodes, including the premiere and finale. Voros is already deep in Sheridan country, having directed all six episodes of The Madison, which was initially announced as another Yellowstone spin-off before it was later revealed as a standalone project ahead of its next two seasons.
Dutton Ranch premieres May 15 on Paramount+ with a two-episode launch, and airs the same night on Paramount Network at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
- Release Date
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May 15, 2026
- Network
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Paramount+
- Showrunner
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Chad Feehan
Entertainment
2012’s Franchise-Starting Sci-Fi Classic Tops American Streaming Charts Ahead of Theatrical Return
The Hunger Games is slowly becoming one of the most enduring cinema franchises of the 21st century. Later this year, on November 20, the latest installment will hit theaters and, despite being 14 years since the first movie debuted, the excitement for the franchise has yet to pass. The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, a prequel set 24 years before Jennifer Lawrence’s Katniss Everdeen first volunteered as tribute, will adapt Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel of the same name, with the latest trailer promising yet another pulse-racing theatrical experience.
The next Hunger Games movie is directed by Francis Lawrence, written by Billy Ray, and will feature a typically star-studded cast. Led by Joseph Zada as a young Haymitch Abernathy, the film also features Ralph Fiennes as President Coriolanus Snow, Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee, Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket, Kieran Culkin as Caesar Flickerman, Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner, Ben Wang as Wyatt Callow, Maya Hawke as Wiress, Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Beetee Latier, Lili Taylor as Mags Flanagan, and more. Not only that, but it was also confirmed that original stars Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson will be reprising their roles in some capacity.
Speaking of the original stars, fans have been getting into the Sunrise on the Reaping mood by heading back to where it all began. At the time of writing, 2012’s The Hunger Games is one of the ten most-streamed movies on AMC+ in the U.S., as per FlixPatrol. Between the first and this upcoming latest entry in the franchise, there have been four movies: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, Mockingjay – Part 1, Mockingjay – Part 2, and The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.
How Much Did ‘The Hunger Games’ Gross at the Box Office?
In total, The Hunger Games franchise has made over $3.3 billion in total global revenue across five films to date, with there being a strong chance this will cross the $4 billion boundary after the release of Sunrise on the Reaping. But how much of this came from the first installment? Against a reported production budget of $80 million, The Hunger Games became one of the highest-grossing movies of 2012, earning a global total of $678 million, split between a domestic haul of $408 million and a further $270 million from overseas markets.
The Hunger Games is a streaming hit on AMC+. Stay tuned to Collider for more streaming stories.
- Release Date
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March 23, 2012
- Runtime
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142 minutes
- Director
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Gary Ross
- Writers
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Billy Ray, Gary Ross, Suzanne Collins
One of the most important qualities of any notable movie is its visual storytelling, but some classics, such as Gone with the Wind, Sunset Boulevard, and Lawrence of Arabia, define the standard of great directing. When people talk about perfectly directed classic movies, they usually mean films where an array of elements, including camera movement, pacing, performances, lighting, and sound, work together so seamlessly that nothing feels out of place and the director’s vision is clear but never distracting.
What unites classics like Casablanca, The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, and The Godfather, isn’t just technical brilliance or captivating performances; it’s the director’s intention. Every shot has a purpose, every silence speaks, and every choice reinforces the film’s core idea, delivering an unforgettable movie experience that embodies the escapism of cinema. From John Ford‘s Western masterpiece, The Searchers, starring John Wayne, to Orson Welles‘ iconic Oscar-winning classic Citizen Kane, these are ten of the most perfectly directed classic movies, ranked!
10
‘The Searchers’ (1956)
The Searchers is regarded as one of the greatest classic Western movies ever made and features a signature performance by the Duke as a Civil War veteran, Ethan Edwards, who, after the murder of his family, sets out to find his surviving nieces who are being held captive by Native Americans. John Ford, known for filming on location rather than on a sound stage, combines visual storytelling, thematic depth, and precise control of tone into The Searchers, which feels both epic and intimate.
The film’s pacing and structure show tight directorial control, and scenes often begin late and end early, which is a testament to Ford’s efficiency and confidence as a director. The final scene of Edwards lingering in the door frame is not only an iconic tip of the hat to Wayne’s mentor and Western legend, Harry Carey, but it’s also a purely visual resolution that captures the film’s central idea about alienation and the cost of obsession with the use of any dialogue.
9
‘Vertigo’ (1958)
Image via Paramount Pictures
James Stewart stars in Alfred Hitchcock‘s Vertigo as a retired San Francisco detective, John “Scottie” Ferguson, who is hired by a college friend to follow his troubled wife, Madeline (Kim Novak), sparking an unexpected affair that leads Ferguson down a twisted path of obsession and madness. Many people consider Vertigo to be Hitchcock’s magnum opus, and while some may argue otherwise, there’s no denying that it demonstrates the director’s impeccable control of visual storytelling in all its glory, making it one of the director’s greatest masterpieces.
One of the film’s most notable qualities is the famous dolly zoom effect, which doesn’t just look striking; it puts the audience inside Ferguson’s mind and makes a psychological condition feel physical in a way that is uncanny. Like every Hitchcock classic, everything has a purpose, even something as simple as color. Hitchcock’s use of greens, reds, and muted tones in Vertigo tracks the characters’ emotional states and identity shifts, giving the audience a chance to experience the transformation before fully understanding it.
8
‘Gone With the Wind’ (1939)
Gone with the Wind is an epic historical romance and essential classic movie based on Margaret Mitchell‘s 1936 novel of the same name, and follows the trials and tribulations of a headstrong Southern Belle, Scarlett O’Hara (Vivien Leigh), whose life is turned upside down by the American Civil War. The movie was a major success and is known today for its iconic performances, distinct use of color, and for taking the art and craft of cinematic storytelling to new heights. Although multiple directors and producers contributed, Victor Fleming is most closely associated with shaping its final form into a cohesive vision.
The film moves effortlessly between sweeping Civil War set pieces and deeply personal moments, creating a unique balance of depth and spectacle that audiences at the time had never seen before. Scenes like the burning of Atlanta are staged with massive visual impact, yet the story never loses focus on its heroine’s perspective, which demonstrates Fleming’s ability to counter epic and personal storytelling. Out of its thirteen Academy Award nominations, Gone with the Wind went on to win eight of its nominations, notably for Best Actress, Best Picture, and Best Director.
7
‘Lawrence of Arabia’ (1962)
Peter O’Toole stars in David Lean‘s epic biographical drama, Lawrence of Arabia, as a British Lieutenant who is sent to Arabia to serve as a military advisor to Bedouin forces during the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire. The movie is based on the life of T.E. Lawrence and his autobiography, Seven Pillars of Wisdom, also known as Revolt in the Desert. Lawrence of Arabia is frequently cited as one of the most perfectly directed classic movies because Lean achieves a rare blend of monumental scale and a deep psychological focus by using the vastness of the surrounding desert to mirror O’Toole’s character.
Known as a meticulous director, Lean gave O’Toole the complete freedom to define his character, trusting that he would bring the kind of energy and complexity to the role that the director desired. The infamous scene where Lawrence uses his knife to see himself in his new all-white attire was not only entirely improvised by O’Toole but also earned immense praise from Lean. Today, it is easily one of the most iconic moments in classic cinema history. Lawrence of Arabia dazzled audiences and critics around the world and went on to win seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Cinematography.
6
‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ (1968)
Stanley Kubrick‘s 2001: A Space Odyssey marked a major milestone in visual storytelling with its innovative special effects, authentic depiction of space travel, and cryptic story structure. The epic sci-fi classic follows Dr. Dave Bowman (Keir Dullea) and a group of astronauts who are sent on a mysterious mission into space with an advanced computer system known as HAL as their guide. When HAL begins to exhibit strange behavior that isn’t in his programming, a face-off between man and technology ensues, sending Bowman into a life-changing experience through space and time.
Kubrick exercises extraordinary control over every element of filmmaking in 2001: A Space Odyssey and ultimately creates an experience for audiences that is as much philosophical as it is cinematic. Each frame and shot is carefully composed, with symmetry and stillness, and the use of practical effects and model work gives the space sequences a realism that still holds up today. Despite its initially mixed reception from critics, 2001: A Space Odyssey earned four Academy Award nominations, notably for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay, and won Best Special Visual Effects.
5
‘Sunset Boulevard’ (1950)
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The legendary Billy Wilder fuses sharp storytelling, visual style, and tone into his 1950 film noir classic, Sunset Boulevard, in a way that makes it both a gripping drama and a biting critique of Hollywood itself. Recognized as the best classic film noir movie of all time, Sunset Boulevard stars William Holden as an aspiring screenwriter, Joe Gillis, who agrees to write a comeback script for a former silent film star, Norma Desmond (Gloria Swanson), but as Desmond’s infatuation with Gillis turns into an obsession, the writer starts to realize that he’s potentially made a deal with the devil that could cost him more than his career.
Wilder strategically alternates between noir, dark comedy, and tragedy in Sunset Boulevard without letting any element overpower the others, resulting in a cinematic experience that feels cohesive even as it shifts from cynical humor to genuine pathos. While Wilder’s expertise and masterful eye are the main source of the film’s brilliance, the alluring cinematography by John Seitz is another one of the film’s greatest strengths. His use of high contrast lighting, shadows, and expressive compositions effectively reflects the decay that lies beneath the glamour of Hollywood, essentially reinforcing the film’s themes without needing explicit explanation.
4
‘Casablanca’ (1942)
The 1942 romantic war drama Casablanca earns its place on this exclusive list because of Michael Curtiz‘s flawless direction, which brings story, performances, and an uncompromising atmosphere together with such clarity that every element feels effortless and unified. Set during World War II, Humphrey Bogart stars as an American, Rick Blaine, who is forced to choose to either be with the woman he loves (Ingrid Bergman) or help her husband, a Czechoslovakian resistance leader (Paul Henreid), escape the city of Casablanca before he can be apprehended by enemy forces.
Using classic Hollywood lighting and composition, Curtiz creates an atmosphere of intimacy and tension, especially in Rick’s Café, where shadows, smoke, and crowd movement reflect the uncertainty of life during wartime and Rick’s internal predicament. The camera often frames characters in ways that emphasize emotional distance or connection and balances romance, political drama, and suspense without losing focus. Initially, almost everyone involved in production felt the film would fail, but to everyone’s surprise, Casablanca was a massive success that went on to win three of its eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director.
3
‘The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly’ (1966)
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly is a signature spaghetti Western directed by Sergio Leone, who transforms a simple treasure-hunt story into an operatic, visually driven experience through precise control of style, rhythm, and tone, making it one of the most perfectly directed classic movies ever. Clint Eastwood stars in his iconic role as the Man With No Name, who reluctantly teams up with a conniving outlaw (Eli Wallach) to search for a golden fortune that was buried by Confederate soldiers in a graveyard, and eventually find themselves in a race against time after learning that a ruthless mercenary (Lee Van Cleef) is also after the hefty prize.
Leone contrasts extreme wide shots of barren landscapes with intense close-ups of faces, creating tension through scale and detail. The camera lingers longer than expected, stretching moments until they become almost unbearable, then releases that tension in bursts of action. He constructs each scene like a musical composition and gradually builds layers of anticipation, which is heightened by Ennio Morricone‘s masterful musical score. The final scene of the cemetery showdown is the clearest example of this as the cutaways, framing, and timing, combined with Morricone’s distinct work, turn a simple standoff into a prolonged, almost mythic climax.
2
‘The Godfather’ (1972)
Francis Ford Coppola‘s The Godfather redefined the traditional gangster film and is, without question, one of the most important films in American cinema, but the manner in which Coppola combines intimate family drama into an intense crime saga is what makes The Godfather one of the most perfectly directed classic movies ever. Based on Mario Puzo‘s best-selling novel, Marlon Brando stars as an aging mob boss, Vito Corleone, whose youngest son and decorated war hero, Michael (Al Pacino), reluctantly steps up to protect his father and their family during an intense civil war with the other families.
The visual style, shaped with the work of cinematographer Gordon Willis, is a defining aspect of Coppola’s immaculate direction in The Godfather. The use of low lighting and shadow creates a sense of secrecy and moral ambiguity, while carefully composed interiors give the film a rich, vibrant quality. Coppola carefully builds tension over time, leading to moments of release that feel both inevitable and powerful, most famously in the baptism sequence, where cross-cutting ties together personal and violent acts with thematic precision. Overall, Coppola’s knack for weaving performances, tone, and visual storytelling together brings a cohesive vision to life in The Godfather, giving audiences a timeless classic that is both grand in scope and deeply human.
1
‘Citizen Kane’ (1941)
Orson Welles made his directorial and feature film debut in the Oscar-winning classic Citizen Kane, which was both a cinematic and technical achievement that changed the film industry forever. The film tells the story of a newspaper tycoon, Charles Foster Kane (Welles), whose cryptic dying last words, “Rosebud,” lead a young reporter (William Alland) on a search to find out the meaning behind them. As the reporter interviews Kane’s friends and associates, a fascinating portrait of a man begins to emerge, detailing his journey from essentially nothing and the events and efforts that elevated him to staggering heights of wealth, influence, and power.
Instead of a traditional linear narrative, Kane’s life unfolds through fragmented perspectives of the reporter’s investigation, each revealing different sides of his character. The non-linear structure, built around the mystery of “Rosebud,” reflects Welles’ confidence in trusting the audience to piece it all together. Welles’ combination of groundbreaking filming techniques and his unified artistic vision in Citizen Kane ultimately reshaped what film direction could achieve. His innovative use of low-angle shots, long takes, and expressive compositions creates a sense of power, isolation, and psychological depth that sets Citizen Kane apart from other dramatic films at the time.
Citizen Kane
- Release Date
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April 17, 1941
- Runtime
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119 minutes
- Writers
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Herman J. Mankiewicz, Orson Welles, John Houseman, Roger Q. Denny, Mollie Kent
On Met Monday, Gatorade is making a major move beyond the red carpet, launching “Body of Science,” a multi-year global research commitment aimed at closing the long-standing gap in sports science focused on women, and the timing couldn’t be more powerful. With Venus Williams serving as a 2026 Met Gala co-chair, the 45-year-old tennis icon is also stepping into a new role as the first ambassador for the initiative, bridging the worlds of sport, science, and culture.
Despite decades of research on performance and hydration, women have largely been left out of the equation. According to a press release shared with The Blast, only 6% of global sports science research focuses exclusively on women, a gap that impacts not just athletes, but women across all aspects of life.
Even more striking, 65 million women report that dehydration negatively affects their health, mood, focus, and energy, yet many lack science-backed guidance tailored specifically to their bodies. The result is a system where research designed for men has been widely applied to women.
Inside ‘Body of Science’: GSSI Targets Women’s Hydration Needs Across Every Life Stage
Led by the Gatorade Sports Science Institute (GSSI), the initiative will focus on understanding women’s hydration and nutrition needs across key life stages. That includes the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and perimenopause.
Early research is already underway, with 500 women globally, ranging from college students to professional athletes, participating in initial studies. The program will also explore critical areas like sweat habits, carbohydrate intake, and injury prevention strategies.
Venus Williams Steps Up To Lead ‘Body of Science’ Initiative
Venus Williams isn’t just lending her name, but she’s helping lead the charge. “This work is so important because it’s not just about me, it’s about the women who come after me,” she said. “For decades, we’ve pushed our bodies to the limit based on research designed for men.”
The 2026 Met Gala co-chair added, “What excites me most is that with Body of Science, Gatorade is asking the right questions about hydration and nutrition and conducting the studies that will give women the knowledge we have been missing. I’m committed to championing this work alongside them.”
Gatorade’s ‘Body of Science’ Aims To Set New Standard For Women’s Research And Participation
“Body of Science” builds on Gatorade’s broader mission to expand opportunities in sport and beyond. Women across the U.S. will also have the chance to participate in the research through the GSSI Labs app, earning points-based rewards while contributing to findings that could reshape how women understand their bodies.
With decades of research behind it, GSSI is now turning its focus toward a future where women are no longer overlooked in science. “For over four decades, GSSI has been committed to understanding hydration and nutrition science,” Dr. Kimberly Stein said. “‘Body of Science’ represents a pivotal evolution of that mission, one that acknowledges and addresses a critical gap in research.”
She added, “By conducting and publishing peer-reviewed studies on women’s unique hydration and nutrition needs across life stages, we’re not just advancing the science; we’re establishing a new standard.”
At a moment when the world is watching the Met Gala for fashion, Gatorade is making it clear that the real statement is happening behind the scenes.
Venus Williams Steps Into Spotlight As Met Gala Co-Chair
The launch of “Body of Science” comes at a major moment for Venus Williams, who is set to co-chair the Met Gala 2026 taking place tonight, May 4. Her role marks another milestone for the Williams family at fashion’s biggest event. Serena Williams previously made history as the first tennis player to serve as a Met Gala co-chair back in 2019, paving the way for her sister’s moment on the global stage.
The sisters’ presence in fashion is nothing new. Both Venus and Serena have long expressed an interest in design, style, and the arts, making their involvement in the Met Gala a natural extension of their influence beyond the court.
Now, with Venus Williams balancing her co-chair duties alongside Nicole Kidman, Anna Wintour, and Beyoncé, and a major global initiative, she’s proving once again that her impact stretches far beyond tennis.
Coverage of the 2026 Met Gala red carpet begins on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. ET.
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Spring beauty always calls for a routine refresh, especially when winter dryness leaves lips feeling rough and skin looking a little dull. Heavy balms and surface-level glosses can suddenly feel less appealing as the season shifts toward lighter, glowier essentials. That’s exactly why True Botanicals’ newest launch feels like such an exciting upgrade.
Known for its skincare-first formulas (including the Chebula Active Serum Brooke Shields has praised), the brand is now expanding that same thoughtful approach into lip care. The clean beauty brand launched a new bundle that pairs their debut Lipid Lip Hydrating Lip Oil with their cult-favorite Renew Pure Radiance Oil. The duo brings a luxe pairing that’s designed to elevate spring beauty from every angle.
Get Lipid Lip Hydrating Oil and Renew Pure Radiance Oil Bundle at True Botanicals!
Powered by 80% botanical seed oils and sodium hyaluronate, Lipid Lip Hydrating Lip Oil delivers lightweight nourishment that leaves lips feeling soft, smooth and refreshed. It’s a clean, polished upgrade for anyone looking to swap winter dryness for seasonal radiance.
The cushiony, glossy formula feels luxurious from the very first swipe, delivering shine without uncomfortable stickiness. Plus, it’s fresh bergamot-citrus scent adds an extra layer of sophistication. Think of it as skincare-forward lip care disguised as a luxe beauty essential.
Pairing the new lip oil with the brand’s cult-favorite Renew Pure Radiance Oil makes this launch feel especially indulgent. Loved for its glow-enhancing botanical formula, the face oil adds skin-loving luminosity to the mix. Together, the duo feels tailor-made for anyone seeking soft lips and radiant skin.
If your beauty routine is due for a seasonal glow-up, this bundle makes it especially easy to achieve. Between the nourishing lip oil and beloved radiance-boosting face oil, it offers a luxe approach to everyday softness and luminosity. Think of it as your shortcut to a skin-boosting seasonal reset.
Get Lipid Lip Hydrating Oil and Renew Pure Radiance Oil Bundle at True Botanicals!
The lead-up to the Met Gala is rarely quiet, but this year’s buildup has taken an unexpected turn even before the red carpet begins.
As A-list stars gathered in New York City for Anna Wintour’s exclusive pre-Gala dinner, anticipation for fashion’s biggest night was already running high.
Considering the 2026 theme being “Costume Art,” the evening was meant to spotlight style, but Zoe Kravitz’s surprise engagement reveal quickly stole focus, adding fresh buzz to an already star-studded moment.
The pre-Met Gala dinner hosted by Anna Wintour drew some of the biggest names in entertainment, but it was Zoe Kravitz who instantly stole attention.
The 37-year-old actress arrived wearing a soft mint sweater layered over a floral dress, pairing the look with a suede YSL clutch and pointed heels.
However, it was the sparkling ring on her finger that dominated the conversation.
As the Daily Mail reported, Kravitz, who is serving as a co-chair of the Met Gala host committee, appeared relaxed as she made her way into the event, seemingly unfazed by the frenzy surrounding her personal life.
Reports suggest she and Harry Styles became engaged after just eight months of dating, turning their relationship into one of the most talked-about celebrity developments of the moment.
Met Gala Pre-Dinner Draws Star Power And Bold Fashion Choices
While Kravitz dominated headlines, the pre-Gala dinner still delivered a strong lineup of celebrity appearances.
Nicole Kidman arrived in a sleek black outfit, cementing her position as one of the evening’s leading figures.
She is serving as a co-chair alongside Beyoncé and Venus Williams, forming a powerful trio guiding this year’s event.
Besides Kidman, Serena Williams made a bold statement in a red sequined gown featuring a high slit and open back, paired with black Louboutin heels.
Her sister Venus also stood out in a detailed black-and-red dress, attending with her husband Andrea Preti, who opted for a classic dark suit.
Sabrina Carpenter brought a softer contrast in a black silk dress with lace accents, while Donatella Versace added her signature glamour in a shimmering champagne gown.
Met Gala Theme ‘Costume Art’ Explores Fashion As Creative Expression
The 2026 Met Gala, formally known as the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Benefit, will explore the theme “Costume Art,” with a dress code encouraging guests to interpret “Fashion Is Art.”
The concept invites designers and attendees to treat the human body as a canvas for creative expression.
The exhibition will present a mix of historical and modern designs, organized into themes that explore different aspects of the body, including classical forms, aging and pregnancy, and anatomical design.
At a press conference, curator Andrew Bolton explained the meaning behind the theme, stating per the Daily Mail, “The title “Costume Art” refers to the history of the costume institute.”
He further emphasized that fashion has “the status of art because of, and not in spite of, its relation to the body.”
The exhibit will be showcased in the museum’s new Conde M. Nast Galleries, with support from French fashion house Yves Saint Laurent.
Met Gala Backed By Power Players Including Jeff Bezos And Lauren Sanchez
Behind the scenes, this year’s Met Gala is being driven by major cultural and financial figures.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife Lauren Sanchez are serving as lead sponsors and honorary co-chairs, playing a key role in bringing the event to life.
The couple made a coordinated appearance at the pre-Gala dinner, with Bezos in a tailored grey suit and Sanchez in a dark red ensemble.
Reports suggest the pair contributed a significant amount to secure their involvement.
The host committee also includes a wide range of influential figures, from Anthony Vaccarello and Kravitz to Carpenter, Doja Cat, Angela Bassett, Gwendoline Christie, Misty Copeland, Elizabeth Debicki, Lena Dunham, Sam Smith, and Teyana Taylor.
Met Gala Legacy Continues Under Anna Wintour’s Leadership
The 2026 Met Gala arrives during a significant shift for Anna Wintour, who recently stepped back from one of her long-held editorial roles at Vogue after 37 years.
Despite the shift, she remains deeply involved in shaping the event, which she has helped turn into one of the most exclusive and influential nights in fashion.
The Gala continues to serve as a major fundraiser for the Costume Institute, supporting its exhibitions and programming.
This year’s showcase will run from May 10, 2026, through January 10, 2027, following the Gala on May 4.
Over the years, the event has attracted major names like Rihanna, the Kardashians, Blake Lively, and Zendaya.
However, last year saw some notable absences, with speculation that certain celebrities chose to skip the event due to concerns about navigating the theme centered on Black dandyism.
Dancing With the Stars’ Jenna Johnson shared an emotional video that documented a recent “crash-out” amid the 2026 live tour.
In a Saturday, May 2, TikTok video, the professional dancer, 32, filmed herself wiping away tears as a caption set the scene. “Sick, body hurts, on my period,” the caption began. “This is what my angel of a manager had to deal with yesterday lol.” Another text caption pasted within the clip read, “Mid crash out to my manager.”
While the footage captured Johnson visibly shaken, speaking to the camera during various recordings, her voice and subsequent reflections were not audible.
The video was shared less than two weeks from the end of this year’s Dancing With the Stars Live tour, which kicked off on January 22 at Ohio’s Akron Civic Theatre and will wrap on Wednesday, May 13, at the same venue.
Dancing With the Stars pro Jenna Johnson is addressing the viral speculation that she was injured in a near-fatal car accident. “It has been brought to my attention by hundreds of you that there is an article circulating that I was involved in an accident with other horrifying information,” Johnson, 31, wrote via her Instagram […]
Fans were quick to express their concern for Johnson, who is accompanied on the tour with her fellow pro dancer husband Val Chmerkovskiy. “DWTS Tour should be name changed to Survivor. It’s [a] brutally tough looking endeavor,” wrote one person in the video’s comments section. Another wrote, “I wish people understood how rough the tour is for you guys but I also know people appreciate and love you guys so much ❤️.”
In March, Chmerkovskiy, 40, experienced a health emergency of his own while on tour, hospitalized while travelling through Illinois as part of the experience. Chmerkovskiy, who has been married to Johnson since April 2019, shared the experience via Instagram at the time. “What’s up friends? My bad. I ended up out here in Peoria, [Illinois], but the doc was cool, shout out to Claire our [personal trainer] at our tour and everybody on tour for rallying. I’ve just been having vertigo for the past couple of days and I had it yesterday,” he said in his March 1 post.
Dancing With the Stars pro Val Chmerkovskiy candidly recalled having to go through with a performance shortly after his wife, Jenna Johnson, experienced a miscarriage. “Don’t ask how I got to this video from a few years back, randomly going through my posts. But I can’t help but reflect, this was an impromptu last minute […]
Chmerkovskiy was dressed in a grey sweatshirt and a blue beanie, appearing groggy in the video while his voice was raspy and his eyes watered.
More recently, another DWTS pro, Brandon Armstrong, announced his departure from the tour after suffering a serious injury. “OK, y’all: No easy way to say this and, honestly, I’m super bummed but you can tell I’m hurt,” Armstrong, 31, said in a Saturday, April 25, social media video that showed him wearing a sling across his arm. “I’ve been dealing with a little problem in my elbow for awhile and then a few shows ago I was doing a little thing and it just went south.”
His post continued, “Long story short, I have a broken elbow. Could be a lot worse, could obviously be a lot better. I spoke with the doctor and I’ve been counseled from that doctor and the team on tour that I need to go home and look at it and try to figure it out, see what the next steps are taken so I can get healthy again.”
Cracow Monsters has been described as the “perfect series” for those who love the horror genre, and although it is not immediately obvious why, as soon as you sink your teeth into the series, it grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go. Effortlessly, it blends the supernatural viciousness of demons with a sultry sense of intrigue that reflects the gloomy streets of its setting. Due to its serial format, it isn’t restricted to focusing on one antagonist, choosing to have a primary villain who brings and revives other demons into the world. This allows the show to explore creature design in an indulgent way that horror fans will love sinking their teeth into.
Outside the horror elements, the show utilizes a small ensemble of close-knit students, who, as the protagonist Alex (Barbara Liberek) begins to trust them, add a real sense of community to the story. Each has a distinct persona as well as a unique ability that creates this Scooby-Doo-esque team at the center of all the horror. It adds moments of lightness but, more importantly, plays into the aspect of horror cinema where there is often a core friendship group for the viewer to root for. The core difference here is that the extended runtime means they aren’t picked off one by one instantly, and you are given time to get to know and care about them.
What Is ‘Cracow Monsters’ About?
Cracow Monsters centers around Alex, a college student who is haunted by troubling visions that relate to her past. Her mother had similar hallucinations, and Alex believed her to be schizophrenic. However, her view shifts after Alex’s professor recruits her for a group of students who study and hunt demons. Although the series starts slowly, as Alex is understandably confused and wary of their intentions, after coming face-to-face with one of the creatures, she joins the group. The group’s abilities include foresight, which means the show offers snippets of what is to come without any context, allowing the viewer to attempt to piece together the mystery. It turns Cracow Monsters into something all-consuming that doesn’t just get under your skin because of the creatures, but also because of the intensity of the intrigue.
Unlike a horror movie, which usually features a cold open to immediately reel the audience in, Cracow Monsters takes a slow burn approach, instead choosing to start the series in a sweaty, illuminated nightclub. It instantly sets the mature, sexy tone of the series, but shows a confidence that the show isn’t relying on creature design or special effects as the primary source of intrigue. Rather, protagonist Alex is drenched in mystery, and the allure of her presence throughout the season is akin to the final girl trope, albeit darker and less idealized.
‘Cracow Monsters’ Biggest Strength Is Its Creature Design
Despite the obvious strength of the tone Cracow Monsters delivers, the creatures are the major appeal for any horror fan. The show experiments with different styles of demons, from human-presenting, sexual creatures to giant, brutish beasts. However, it is the way the show weaves in Slavic mythology that makes these creatures feel so developed and tangible. The show takes time to indulge in folklore and art due to its academic setting, and its characters don’t just care about defeating these creatures; they actually want to understand them. The library montages where characters attempt to uncover the truth are a popular trope within horror movies, and they often feel like a plot device for an exposition dump. However, in Cracow Monsters, the discoveries are earned and spread throughout the series, which makes it much more engaging for a horror audience. The books themselves are decadent in design, with gorgeous illustrations that make them feel like old scripture and give so much more personality to the already embellished creatures.
Yet, what is most impressive about the variety of creatures in the show is their physical design. Each has a distinctive appearance and unusual manners of movement that make every single one unpredictable. The one element they all have in common is their bloodthirsty nature, which keeps the body count high. There is a creature for fans of every horror subgenre, as the series seamlessly blends zombies, the occult, and folk horror. Cracow Monsters intertwines beings that feel like they can’t co-exist and finds a way to integrate them into the story. Although the big bad being a small child sometimes requires a suspension of disbelief, the creatures he pulls from the earth don’t require any at all – they are terrifying by nature.
‘Cracow Monsters’ Is Based on Real Folklore
Image via Netflix
The show doesn’t just pick pockets of folklore for the sake of its creature design, but threads it through the whole narrative, bringing elements of the occult subgenre into a modern, urban setting. Alex is given sage as a part of a cleansing ritual by one of her fellow students, and the group uses symbols of demonology to perform an exorcism. If your favorite aspect of horror is the creation of a rich sense of lore and history, Cracow Monsters provides that at the highest level. This is mostly due to its connection to real Slavic folklore.
The core group that Alex is initiated into provides the show something to ground itself in, giving it the use of unorthodox techniques and areas of study to feel more integrated. Having Alex as the audience surrogate entering an environment where the characters are already well-versed in the art of the supernatural allows the show to have a natural flow and gives horror lovers what they want to see without focusing too much on exposition and character discovery. The use of unusual medications or practices doesn’t come with any jeopardy, as the cast are already familiar with them. It allows the show to concentrate on the dynamics of the group, providing a balance between the supernatural side of the show and the more warm community feel.
In eight episodes, Cracow Monsters brings numerous components for horror movie lovers to feast on. Not only does it indulge in detailed creature design, giving audiences diverse and unpredictable antagonists, but it crafts an extremely likable group of heroes to engage in the mystery as well as provide moments of genuine heart. It is a slow-burning story, but any horror lover should stick with it and reap the rewards.
Cracow Monsters is available to stream on Netflix in the U.S.
- Release Date
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2022 – 2022-00-00
- Network
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Netflix
- Directors
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Kasia Adamik
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Barbara Liberek
Aleksandra “Alex” Walas
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Andrzej Chyra
Profesor Jan Zawadzki
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Stanisław Linowski
Lucjan “Lucky” Szczęsny, asystent Zawadzkiego
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Alex Cooper built her brand on control, confidence, and knowing exactly how to steer a conversation, but now, that control is being tested in a very public way.
The “Call Her Daddy” host is facing growing scrutiny after serious allegations surfaced about her husband and business partner, Matt Kaplan.
As reports describe tension behind the scenes of their company, the spotlight has shifted from Cooper’s success to the cracks forming within her empire, and the pressure is only building.
Alex Cooper found herself at the center of controversy after calling out former collaborator Alix Earle, an unexpected move that quickly snowballed into something much bigger.
Instead of the focus staying on that feud, attention shifted to Cooper’s husband, Kaplan, and his alleged behavior at their company, Trending.
A recent investigation claimed the 42-year-old created a difficult work environment, with accusations that he “berated” and “yelled” at employees.
There were also claims that Kaplan threatened to blackball staff from working in Hollywood. As the reports gained traction, insiders suggested the situation hit at something deeply personal for Cooper.
“This is Alex Cooper’s biggest fear: bad press,” a source told the Daily Mail, adding, “It matters to her. She wants to control the narrative, always. She is insecure and cutthroat all in one. She really doesn’t have that many friends.”
Cooper’s Company Hit With Workplace Complaints And Staff Turnover
According to reports regarding the recent investigation, Matt Kaplan allegedly “berated the staff on set” of the Unwell Winter Games and warned them they could lose future opportunities if mistakes were made.
One experienced crew member was said to have broken down in tears. Another claim involved a production manager who nearly quit during Alex Cooper’s 2023 live tour, citing concerns about Kaplan “disrespecting staff by yelling and swearing at them.”
Footage later showed the film producer telling his wife that the manager had simply “snapped.”
While their creative agency, Unwell, reportedly employs around 100 people, several high-level executives have left within the past year, including key leadership roles in marketing and growth.
Alex Cooper’s Marriage To Matt Kaplan Faces Strain Behind The Scenes
Beyond the business concerns, sources suggest the pressure has also affected Cooper’s personal life.
Insiders claim that tension has been building within her marriage to Kaplan, particularly as their professional partnership has deepened.
“There’s a lot of tension in their marriage right now,” a source said, adding that the couple is not sleeping in the same room.
The insider also described a shift in Kaplan’s behavior over time, noting how their relationship changed after they began living together.
“Matt fully courted Alex and was so sweet with her in the beginning. Once they moved in together, that’s when things changed,” the source explained.
The couple’s decision to combine their business ventures has also raised concerns among those close to Cooper. According to the same source, Kaplan plays a dominant role in her career decisions.
“Matt pushes her to do things in her business,” they said, adding, “She doesn’t have a manager. Matt is always in the room. Everything goes through Matt.”
Cooper’s Expanding Vision Raises Questions About Sustainability
Even as controversy swirls, Alex Cooper’s ambitions remain massive. The Unwell brand has expanded into live events, reality-style content, merchandise, energy drinks, and streaming projects like “Love Overboard” and “Call Her Alex.”
However, some critics believe the scale of these efforts may be part of the problem. Courtney Babbin, who interviewed for a role at Unwell, described her experience with Kaplan as unsettling.
“Alex and Matt truly think they are the smartest people in the world,” she said, recalling what she called “the most uncomfortable two hours of my life.”
She also claimed Kaplan asked “inappropriate” personal questions and avoided eye contact during their meeting.
Babbin questioned how the company operates internally, adding, “If my interview is that rough, I could only imagine what happens behind closed doors.”
She also raised concerns about the company’s ambitious expansion. “They’re trying to do everything,” she said. “It’s reality TV, it’s events.”
Babbin added that the film producer openly shared business plans without requiring a non-disclosure agreement, calling it unusual.
Alex Cooper’s Business Empire Built With Kaplan Now Under Pressure
Cooper’s personal and professional life became deeply intertwined after meeting Matt Kaplan in 2020.
Introduced over Zoom, he quickly became a major figure in her life, both romantically and in business, earning the nickname “Mr Sexy Zoom Man” among fans.
Kaplan brought his own success into the partnership, having founded ACE Entertainment and produced projects like “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” and “XO, Kitty.” Together, they expanded Cooper’s brand into a full-scale media operation.
In 2021, the 31-year-old signed a $60 million deal with Spotify. By 2023, she and Kaplan were engaged and launched Trending, which became the parent company of Call Her Daddy and ACE Entertainment.
That same year, they introduced the Unwell Network, bringing in creators like Earle and Madeline Argy.
The couple tied the knot in April 2024, and just months later, Cooper secured a $125 million deal with SiriusXM.
They continued expanding with ventures like the Unwell Creative Agency, aimed at connecting brands with Gen Z audiences.
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